What is the best way to use a raft for transporting fine wood?

Transporting fine wood in Valheim using a raft requires careful planning and execution. Fine wood is a valuable resource found in the Meadows and Black Forest biomes, primarily obtained by chopping down birch and oak trees. Since fine wood is essential for crafting advanced items like the Finewood Bow and portals, transporting it efficiently is crucial. A raft is the first watercraft available to players, crafted using 20 wood, 6 leather scraps, and 10 resin. While it is slow and vulnerable, it is a viable option for early-game resource transportation.\n\nTo begin, gather the necessary materials to craft a raft. Leather scraps are obtained from boars, while resin drops from greylings and greydwarfs. Once you have the materials, craft the raft at a workbench. Place the raft in shallow water near your fine wood source, ensuring it is accessible and safe from enemies. Before loading the raft, clear the area of threats like greydwarfs or necks, as they can damage the raft or disrupt your journey.\n\nTo transport fine wood, chop down birch or oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest. These trees yield fine wood logs, which can be carried in your inventory. However, inventory space is limited, so prioritize stacking fine wood to maximize efficiency. If you have a cart, you can use it to transport larger quantities of fine wood to the raft. Place the cart on the raft carefully, as it can fall off if the raft tilts or hits waves. Alternatively, you can make multiple trips to transport fine wood if you lack a cart.\n\nWhen sailing, be cautious of the raft''s limitations. It is slow and can be easily damaged by serpents or storms. Avoid venturing into the Ocean biome, as serpents are a significant threat. Stick to coastal areas and rivers to minimize risks. If you encounter a storm, wait it out on land or near the shore to prevent the raft from capsizing. Additionally, always carry a hammer and repair materials to fix the raft if it takes damage.\n\nA practical example of using a raft for fine wood transport is setting up a base near a birch forest by the coast. Chop down the trees, load the fine wood onto the raft, and sail to your main base. If you encounter greydwarfs or other enemies, use a bow or melee weapon to defend yourself. For experienced players, consider building a small dock to make loading and unloading easier. This also provides a safe spot to store the raft when not in use.\n\nIn summary, using a raft to transport fine wood in Valheim is a viable early-game strategy. Focus on gathering materials, securing the area, and planning your route to avoid dangers. While the raft has limitations, it is a reliable way to move resources across water. As you progress, consider upgrading to a karve or longship for faster and safer transportation. Always prioritize safety and efficiency to make the most of your fine wood haul.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a weapon for defense, avoid sailing at night, and use the wind to your advantage by adjusting the sail. If you have a friend, coordinate to defend the raft and transport more resources. Finally, mark your fine wood sources on the map to streamline future trips.